Please, please refer me, I need bird advice

[birdybirdsmommy]

Hi, Can someone please refer me to someone that I can ask questions about training my (2) untame cockatiels? They're about 1 yr old, frightened, and I don't know how to tame them. They are totally afraid of my hand even entering the cage. I've had them for almost two weeks. Also, I want to be able to let them out, they need exercise, but I'm afraid they'll get hurt. I'm personally opposed to clipping their wings, I don't feel that helps the trust factor when I'm chasing them with a towel on the floor. They don't have much flying experience, I think they came from a bad situation. Please, someone refer me to anyone who can answer my questions, I'm not having luck with responses to my posts! Thank you.

[tielfan]

Try the free clicker training group at Bird-Click : Bird-Click. The book at Amazon.com: Clicker Training for Birds (Getting Started): Melinda Johnson: Books (written by one of the group owners) is easier to read than the free files on their website.

[Willow]

Hi BirdyBirdsMommy,
Thanks for opening your home to these two needy cockatiels. I feel the same as you in terms of clipping wings, so I can understand your reluctance to do so. Is there a same room you can birdproof, where you could bring the cage and work with them?

I second the recommendation for clicker training - a very nonthreatening and trust building way to work with any animal.

Thanks again for opening your home to these two birds in need. Please keep us posted on your progress!